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PETA Control + Shift: Changing Narratives Festival 2025 – Reimagining Filipino Stories for the Stage
Kickstarting 2025 with a bang, PETA (Philippine Educational Theater Association) is back with a fresh line-up of innovative works! Control + Shift: Changing Narratives Festival promises a vibrant exploration of Filipino stories retold for the theater stage.

J-mee Katanyag, the festival director and PETA’s newly appointed artistic director, has curated a compelling selection of original works. Get ready to be challenged and surprised by diverse performance forms including puppetry, movement, interactive elements, and even digital theater. These creative forces combine to breathe new life into traditional Filipino folklore, values, and contemporary issues. The result? Powerful narratives that weave together the past, present, and future.

The festival’s centerpiece is a highly-anticipated remounting of Melvin Lee’s critically-acclaimed trilogy, Kumprontasyon. But that’s not all! Control + Shift also features a dynamic mix of new and experimental works, improv performances, live music jams, and more. Mark your calendars because the festival runs from February 6 to 23, 2025, happening live at the PETA Theater Center in New Manila, Quezon City. Here’s a glimpse of what awaits theatergoers:

Main Theater Performances

Kumprontasyon (February 6-9, PETA-Phinma Theater)
Hailed by critics as a ‘theatrical masterpiece,’ Kumprontasyon delves into unresolved historical and political events through three powerful one-act plays. The stellar cast includes Teroy Guzman, Sherry Lara, Romnick Sarmenta, Ron Capinding, Missy Maramara, Adrienne Vergara, Gillian Vicencio, and Uzziel Delamide. Prepare to be transported as these talented actors bring to life Allan Palileo’s Lakambini, Guelan Luarca’s The Impossible Dream, and Joshua Lim So’s A Color for Tomorrow.

Twin Bill (February 14-15, PETA-Phinma Theater)
Travel back in time and explore the future with Twin Bill! This exciting program features two revisited plays from Control + Shift 2024. Dominique La Victoria’s Kislap at Fuego will whisk you away to a revolutionary love story, while Mixkaela Villalon’s Children of the Algo tackles the digital age and the struggles of a generation obsessed with technology.

Control + Shift + SPIT: An Improvised Show (February 16, PETA-Phinma Theater)
Calling all fans of spontaneous hilarity! Don’t miss this one-night-only show featuring The Silly People’s Improv Theater (SPIT), Manila’s top improv group. Get ready for an evening of laughter and unscripted fun as SPIT takes the stage at the Control + Shift 2025 Festival.

Studio Theater Performances

PETA’s Studio Theater transforms into a platform for eight brand-new works, running February 7 to 16, 2025. Here’s a quick look at the featured productions:

Studio Theater Set A: Unboxing – Felinda V. Bagas’ The Little Girl in a Box invites audiences on a heartwarming journey of self-discovery and empowerment. This captivating story follows a young girl’s search for her true home.

Studio Theater Set B: Time and Tide – Sig Pecho’s Failed Puppeteer and Felinda V. Bagas’ Noche Buena offer a thought-provoking look at how Filipino family values evolve through generations and navigate times of crisis.

Studio Theater Set C: Codes of Corruption – Herlyn Alegre’s Monit-oh! Monit-ah! and John Custer’s hUst1Sy@.exe pose a challenging question: can Filipino values withstand the temptations of corruption? These productions explore both classic and modern ethical dilemmas.

Studio Theater Set D: Breaking Free – Teatro Balagtas’ Ang Kuwento ni Babae, PETA ARTSZone Youth ARTvocates’ Taya! Sabay Yakap, and Tanghalang Bagong Sibol and Mikaela Regis’ At Nagkatawang-Tao Ang Verbo all tackle the theme of breaking free from societal constraints, exploring gender roles, childcare, and faith.

Exclusive Offer for Metrobank Cardholders

Planning to catch a show? Metrobank cardholders can enjoy exclusive discounts! From January 15 to 19, 2025, avail of a 10% discount on tickets to any Control + Shift Arts Festival event when you purchase through TicketWorld. Metrobank is proud to be PETA’s official 2025 theater season bank partner and a platinum partner of Control + Shift: Changing Narratives Festival.

Don’t miss out on this exciting festival! Tickets are now on sale via bit.ly/PETACS2025Tickets.
- Studio Theater: Tickets start at Php 700
- Main Theater: Tickets start at Php 1,000
For more updates, follow PETA on social media:
@petatheater (Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok).

Visit the PETA Theater Center at New Manila, Quezon City, this February and be part of this transformative theatrical experience. See you at the Control + Shift: Changing Narratives Festival!
January 23, 2025
Auspicious Festivities to Celebrate the Year of the Wood Snake at City of Dreams Manila

City of Dreams Manila commences its Year of the Wood Snake festivities with auspicious and vibrant Lunar New Year rituals; and dining offers that symbolize prosperity and good fortune at premium restaurants Crystal Dragon, Nobu Manila, and contemporary dining outlet Red Ginger.

Spectacular Chinese New Year Ceremony

To augur good fortune for the community and to highlight an eye-dotting ceremony on January 29, revelers will witness a spectacular lion and 70-ft long dragon dance performances in majestic Chinese New Year tradition performed by skilled artists from Ling Nam Athletic Association in front of the main casino entrance at 5 pm. At the main casino lobby, an imposing installation of this year’s intriguing Chinese zodiac, resplendent in sapphire hues in celebration also of the luxury resort’s tenth year anniversary, is on display.

Crystal Dragon

City of Dreams Manila’s award-winning Cantonese restaurant presents its auspicious and curated specialties that reflect the significant culinary traditions of the Lunar New Year.

Comprised of premium ingredients, the festive a la carte menu, available on January 27 to February 12, is headlined by Crystal Dragon’s indulgent rendition of the traditional prosperity toss salad, levelling it up with Prosperity Abalone Yee Sang (P2,388++, good for three to four persons per serving), To beget luck, the colorful and auspicious salad ritual consists of sliced abalone (for abundance),colorful julienned papaya (evoking youthfulness), pomelo and carrots (for good luck), radish (or swift progress), onion leeks (for wisdom), chopped peanuts, and deep-fried flour crisps(for prosperity) drizzled with oil (for a smooth sailing year), and sweet plum dressing (for sweet and harmonious family relationship).

The Yee Sang is an integral celebratory fare shared by a group, gathered around the table, to mix and toss the ingredients high up with chopsticks while reciting auspicious phrases to bless all present with well-wishes, creating a joyful and lively atmosphere. The ritual is believed to augur good fortune: the higher the toss, the better the prospects and greater wealth for the coming year. This meaningful Lunar New Year tradition is popular in Chinese communities in Southeast Asia, particularly in Malaysia and Singapore where heritage Chinese restaurants introduced it in the 1960s.

Completing Crystal Dragon’s Chinese New Year symbolic specialties to usher in good fortune are: Buddha Jumps Over the Wall in Rich Golden Broth; Poached Yellow Skin Chicken with Chinese spices and Szechuan pepper oil, Steamed Live Sea Grouper in homemade spicy “Choi Hiong” sauce; Live Green Lobster in duo flavor: Wok-fried Green Lobster Meat in fragrant golden garlic and Crispy Salted Egg Lobster Ball; Braised Eight Treasures with Lo Han Vegetables in Golden Nest; Wok-fried Yam Rice with braised pork trotter, roasted duck and crispy pork; Deep-fried Three Layered Salted Egg Yolk Nian Gao, and Chilled Peach Jelly, Snow Swallow & Wolfberries with citrusy Osmanthus honey.

Crystal Dragon is open daily from 12 noon to 11 pm.

Nobu Manila

The season’s flavors and traditions can likewise be savored at the Manila outpost of the globally renowned Nobu Restaurant. From January 27 to February 2, Nobu Manila highlights luxe Chinese New Year ala carte dinner specials featuring premium turbot and rock lobster platters that are a rare feast for up to four persons. The Whole Turbot Fish Sashimi and Sushi Platter consists of sashimi enhanced with matcha soy salt and dry miso in yuzu lemon juice; sushi, which comes with konbu in yuzu lemon juice and turbot liver; and a cut roll of turbot tempura with eel sauce.

The Whole Rock Lobster Sashimi and Sushi Platter consists of sashimi of new-style lobster in yuzu soy sauce and dry miso in capsicum yuzu; and cut roll of lobster tempura, avocado, masago, (fish roe) and chives; primed with steamed lobster roe.

To further tempt the palate, the prime dishes are also offered as indulgent hot entrees — the Whole Turbot Fish in black bean sauce and tempura with amazu ponzu; and the Whole Rock Lobster Tempura in sweet chili cilantro sauce.

Alternatively, the season’s Nobu’s seven-course Omakase menu is also offered.

Nobu Manila is open for dinner from 5 pm to 10 pm, Sunday to Thursday and until 11 pm every Friday and Saturday.

Red Ginger

The contemporary Asian bar and bistro infuses Southeast Asian flavors to its Lunar Festival menu available daily from January 15 to 31, 11 am to 1 am. The special ala carte menu includes a “Prosperity” salmon Curry Puff, a savory dish of salmon and vegetable curry, and hard-boiled egg enclosed in a homemade puff pastry; “Longevity” Crispy Noodles with seafood and gravy, a delicious medley of crispy egg noodles topped with shrimp, squid, lapu-lapu, lobster balls, and assorted vegetables; “Wealthy” Braised Pork Belly with Asia spices, which features a melt-in-your mouth slow-cooked pork belly, bok choy, quail eggs, and braised tofu; “Lucky” Golden Crispy Chicken that comes with sweet chili sauce and chips; and “Fortune” Nian Gao, which features assorted rice cake rolls served with vanilla ice cream and a fortune cookie.

For inquiries and reservations, call 8800-8080 for the or e-mail guestservices@cod-manila.com, or visit www.cityofdreamsmanila.com. Explore more of City of Dreams Manila’s promotional offers, rewards, or instantly check Melco Club points with the new Melco Club App, available for free download on iOS and Android.

January 23, 2025
Kim Ji Soo at the Pasasalamat Event of the Tourism Promotions Board Philippines

South Korean actor Kim Ji Soo is making waves in the Philippines, and his recent appearances are turning heads! Known for his roles in GMA 7’s hit shows like Black Rider and Abot-Kamay na Pangarap, as well as the movie Mujigae, Ji Soo has become a beloved figure in the local entertainment scene.

He recently graced the Pasasalamat event, a vibrant thanksgiving celebration hosted by the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines. This gathering was a star-studded affair, bringing together influential figures from government, media, and the entertainment industry, all united in their mission to showcase the Philippines as a premier global tourism destination.

The TBP recorded P11.3 billion in sales leads in 2024, and also had collaborations with various influential personalities — American actor and model Timothy Granaderos, Filipino-American Nico Santos, American actor Josh Dela Cruz, American pop-rock act LANY, and Kim Ji Soo, of course — which resulted in over P1.44 billion in media values, further amplifying the presence of the Philippines worldwide.

Dressed to impress, Ji Soo stole the spotlight in a stunning ensemble by renowned Filipino designer Randy Ortiz. He sported a sleek black organic-dyed piña barong tagalog, paired with modern striped tuxedo pants, and stylish footwear from Marikina’s Godfather Shoes. This look not only showcased Ji Soo’s impeccable fashion sense but also his deep appreciation for Filipino culture.

From left to right: President of PR firm Visions and Expressions Susan Joven, Actor Kim Ji Soo, TPB Chief Operating Officer Marga Nograles, Managing Director of Universal Records and President & Founder of GLXY Talent Management Kathleen Dy-Go and, Editor in Chief of Philippine Tatler. Anton San Diego.

From left to right is Chief Operating Officer of Live Nation; Isabella Pascua, Managing Director of Universal Records President & Founder of GLXY Talent Management; Kathleen Dy-Go, Managing Director of Live Nation; Rhiza Pascua, Stanley Ng of Philippine Airlines Stanley Ng is the first active pilot to serve as the top executive of the flag carrier. The president and chief operating office of the Philippine Airlines since 2022 is a die-hard customer in the free market of ideas. Stanley Ng embraces ideas no matter where it comes from.and Actor; Kim Ji Soo.

January 23, 2025
Discover the Magic of Chinese Dramas on Viu

Looking for your next binge-worthy obsession? Viu brings you three new captivating Chinese dramas that blend thrilling plots, heartfelt romance, and immersive storytelling. Dive into these incredible tales that promise to transport you to extraordinary worlds and leave you wanting more.

Step into a world of mystery and fantasy – Guardians of the Dafeng

When modern office worker Yang Ling finds himself transported to the fantastical Da Feng Dynasty, he becomes Xu Qi An, a night watchman tasked with solving crimes and protecting the people. Armed with his modern-day knowledge, scientific reasoning, and sharp wit, Xu Qi An cracks one puzzling case after another, quickly earning the title of Da Feng’s top investigator.

This gripping drama is a blend of thrilling detective work and fantastical intrigue, offering a fresh take on the historical-fantasy genre. Guardians of the Dafeng is perfect for fans of smart, fast-paced storytelling with a touch of magic.

A timeless love story that transcends lifetimes – The Blossoming Love

Emperor Zhao Ming’s ultimate sacrifice left behind an eternal love that defies the boundaries of time. Thousands of years later, his devoted Hun Dun Zhu’s reincarnation cycle reunites them as Xie Xue Chen and Mu Xuan Ling—former enemies from opposing factions. As fate intertwines their lives, the two must navigate betrayal, heartbreak, and self-discovery on their journey to love.

With its breathtaking visuals, poignant romance, and rich mythology, The Blossoming Love is an emotional rollercoaster you won’t want to miss.

A love story that begins with a smile – Smile Code

Stand-up comedian Gu Yi juggles her life as an office worker by day and a performer by night, determined to make her audiences laugh. But her resolve is tested when she notices a man in her audience who never smiles. Liang Dai Wen, who struggles with alexithymia, has tried everything to feel and express emotions but remains unmoved. Despite their differences, Gu Yi and Liang Dai Wen’s journey evolves into an unexpected love story full of humor, heart, and discovery.

With its unique premise and heartfelt storytelling, Smile Code is a touching drama that explores the power of connection and the healing magic of love.

These dramas aren’t just stories—they’re an experience. Whether you’re in the mood for gripping mysteries, sweeping romances, or uplifting stories, Viu has you covered. Viu’s Chinese drama category offers something for everyone!

Experience the diverse world of Chinese Dramas and other entertainment offerings on Viu.

January 22, 2025
New Movies This Week – Anora, Flight Risk, Presence, and More!

Looking for the perfect midweek escape? This week’s lineup of fresh releases will take you on a journey through heart-pounding thrillers, emotional dramas, and jaw-dropping adventures. Fall in love with Anora, a modern Cinderella story with a twist, or get ready for edge-of-your-seat suspense in Death Whisperer 2 and Flight Risk. Fans of touching family tales will adore Her Locket, while anime enthusiasts can dive into the epic fantasy of Overlord: The Sacred Kingdom. If you’re seeking chills, Presence will keep you up at night. So grab your movie squad, load up on extra-buttered popcorn, and catch these must-watch films at a theater near you!

Now, let’s take a sneak peek at what’s premiering this week:

Anora

2025 • R-18 • 2 hrs 19 mins
COMEDY, DRAMA, ROMANCE
BUY TICKETS

Get ready for a modern-day Cinderella story with a twist! Anora follows the whirlwind romance of a Brooklyn sex worker, Anora (Mikey Madison), who impulsively marries an oligarch’s son (Mark Eidelshteyn). Their romance hits a snag when his parents arrive from Russia, determined to end the union. Packed with humor, heartfelt moments, and a dash of drama, this is a love story that dares to challenge convention.

Death Whisperer 2

2025 • R-13 • 1 hr 51 mins
ACTION, HORROR, THRILLER
BUY TICKETS

Brace yourself for a spine-chilling sequel that cranks up the intensity! Death Whisperer 2 takes you into a world of darkness where a vengeful force stops at nothing to settle scores. With nail-biting action and eerie suspense, this thriller promises a wild ride that horror fans won’t want to miss.

Flight Risk

2025 • R-13 • 1 hr 31 mins
THRILLER
BUY TICKETS

What happens when trust takes a nosedive at 30,000 feet? In Flight Risk, a pilot’s routine trip through the Alaskan wilderness becomes a high-stakes battle for survival. With an Air Marshal, a fugitive, and a plane full of secrets, tensions soar in this heart-pounding thriller. Mark Wahlberg leads the charge in this edge-of-your-seat cinematic experience.

Her Locket

2023 • PG • 1 hr 59 mins
DRAMA, FAMILY, ROMANCE
BUY TICKETS

Prepare for a poignant tale of love, memory, and resilience. Her Locket tells the touching story of a woman battling dementia, who uses a magical locket to unlock memories from her past. This heartfelt drama explores themes of family and connection, offering a deeply emotional journey that will resonate with audiences of all ages.

Overlord: The Sacred Kingdom

2025 • R-13 • 2 hrs 14 mins
ACTION, ADVENTURE, ANIMATION, FANTASY
GET SHOWTIMES

Anime fans, this one’s for you! Overlord: The Sacred Kingdom transports viewers to a fantastical realm where the Sorcerer King Ains Ooal Gown must rally his undead army to protect the Sacred Kingdom from the evil Demon Emperor Jaldabaoth. With stunning visuals, epic battles, and a captivating story, this movie is a must-watch for fantasy enthusiasts.

Presence

2025 • R-13 • 1 hr 24 mins
DRAMA, HORROR
BUY TICKETS

Your suburban nightmare begins with Presence, a haunting tale of a family convinced they’re not alone in their new home. As shadows linger and strange occurrences unfold, this film masterfully builds tension, delivering a gripping story that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

FAN FAVORITES STILL SHOWING

Meanwhile, don’t forget to catch up on some of the movies that are still playing in cinemas – catch them before they’re gone! Here’s a list of fan favorites that are still showing in cinemas:

Sonic the Hedgehog 3

2025 • PG • 1 hr 50 mins
ACTION, ANIMATION, COMEDY, FAMILY
BUY TICKETS

Interstellar 10th Year Anniversary

2025 • PG • 2 hrs 45 mins
ADVENTURE, DRAMA, SCIENCE FICTION
GET SHOWTIMES

The Last Dance

2025 • PG • 2 hrs 7 mins
DRAMA
GET SHOWTIMES

Tomorrow X Together : Hyperfocus In Cinemas

2025 • PG • 41 mins
MUSIC
BUY TICKETS

Wolf Man

2025 • R-13 • 1 hr 43 mins
HORROR, THRILLER
GET SHOWTIMES

Attack on Titan: The Last Attack

2024 • R-13 • 2 hrs 24 mins
ACTION, ANIMATION, DRAMA
GET SHOWTIMES

Wicked Sing-Along

2024 • PG • 2 hrs 42 mins
DRAMA, FANTASY, MUSICAL
GET SHOWTIMES

And the Breadwinner Is…

2024 • PG • 2 hrs 3 mins
COMEDY, DRAMA, FAMILY
GET SHOWTIMES

Espantaho

2024 • PG • 1 hr 30 mins
HORROR
GET SHOWTIMES

Green Bones

2024 • PG • 1 hr 36 mins
DRAMA
GET SHOWTIMES

The Kingdom

2024 • PG • 2 hrs 13 mins
ACTION, ADVENTURE, DRAMA, HISTORY
GET SHOWTIMES

Mufasa: The Lion King

2024 • G • 1 hr 58 mins
ADVENTURE, ANIMATION, DRAMA, FAMILY
GET SHOWTIMES

Moana 2

2024 • G • 1 hr 39 mins
ADVENTURE, ANIMATION, COMEDY, FAMILY
GET SHOWTIMES

That’s it for this week’s must-watch movie lineup! Don’t miss out—check our Movie Section for showtimes and snag your tickets today. Stay tuned for next week’s fresh releases and updates. Enjoy the movies!

January 22, 2025
Lionsgate Play Kicks Off the Year with Spies, Power, and Excitement

Hello, 2025! The new year is off to an electrifying start, and Lionsgate Play is here to keep you entertained like never before. Whether you’re craving high-stakes action or gripping drama, this month’s second half lineup has it all – promising an unforgettable January. So, grab your favorite snacks, settle in, and get ready to binge watch with Lionsgate Play!

The 355

When a top-secret weapon falls into the wrong hands, CIA wild card Mason “Mace” Brown (Jessica Chastain) teams up with three unlikely allies to save the world from chaos. Alongside the relentless German agent Marie (Diane Kruger), tech-savvy MI6 specialist Khadijah (Lupita Nyong’o), and the level-headed Colombian psychologist Graciela (Penélope Cruz), she engages in a pulse-pounding race across the globe — from the elegant streets of Paris to the bustling markets of Morocco and the high-stakes auction houses of Shanghai. But there’s a twist at every turn as a shadowy figure, Lin Mi Sheng (Fan Bingbing), seems always one step ahead, forcing the team to build a shaky trust that might secure the weapon or destroy them all.

The Young Pope

After a shocking rise to power, Lenny Belardo (Jude Law) becomes the first American pope, adopting the name Pius XIII. His unexpected election is seen as a calculated gamble by the College of Cardinals, but Lenny quickly proves to be anything but predictable. Aloof and enigmatic, he defies Vatican traditions, relying solely on Sister Mary (Diane Keaton), as his trusted confidante. While Sister Mary encourages him to connect with his billion-strong flock, the young pope remains distant, stirring tension and intrigue within the Holy See.

The New Pope

Looking for a follow-up? “The New Pope” picks up where “The Young Pope” left off, blending biting satire with gripping drama to peel back the gilded facade of the Vatican. When Sir John Brannox (John Malkovich), a refined and charismatic English aristocrat, rises to the papal throne as John Paul III, the Vatican is thrust into a new chapter of leadership.

Madam

When Mack Leigh (Rachel Griffiths) discovers her husband’s infidelity and is drowning in debt, she takes an unexpected and bold step to secure her family’s future — launching an ethical brothel. Madam follows Mack’s daring attempt to challenge societal norms, redefine the meaning of sex work, and tackle the stigma surrounding her unconventional business.

With Lionsgate Play’s stellar January lineup, your screen time is about to skyrocket (in the best way possible). Don’t miss out on these fresh releases and subscribe today!

January 21, 2025
Movie Review — A Dark and Gritty Cinderella Story, Anora Is Funny, Poignant, and Real All at the Same Time

Even with all the profanity, nudity, graphic sex, and violence, Sean Baker’s ‘Anora’ is still a charming romantic-comedy that shows a mastery of tone. The film manages to present the love story between an exotic dancer and her young Russian client with such care that it allows the audience to laugh and marvel and cheer them on despite the transactional nature of how they met and the gross indulgence of the Russian youth’s wealth. It’s more gritty, sexually-charged and drug-laden version of a Cinderella story and it somehow manages to surprise us at every turn.

Anora (Mikey Madison), who prefers to be called Ani, is a 23-year-old stripper at a club. Her boss tells her to take care of their Russian guest as Ani can speak and understand Russian. The guest is 21-year old Vanya (Mark Eydelshteyn), a son of a Russian oligarch who is in the US to study. The two hit it off immediately and he asks Ani if she’s willing to come and work outside of the club. One night turns to two, and then he invites her to join him at a huge New Year’s Party at his place before he invites her to stay with him for a week. During this time, she’s introduced to his friends as her girlfriend and they fly off to Vegas where he asks her to marry him so he can be a citizen and he doesn’t have to return to Russia to work for his dad.

Unfortunately, when news of their marriage reaches Russia, Vanya’s dad sends his godfather Toros (Karren Karagulian) to collect the two, get them annulled and to prepare for Vanya to return to Russia. With his two goons, Garnick (Vache Toymasyan) and Igor (Yuri Borisov), Toros attempts to bring the newlyweds to heel but instead Vanya runs off leaving Ani to deal with the rest, whom she is able to handle on her own. When calmer heads prevail, the four now journey throughout the Russian community of Brooklyn to find Vanya and settle everything before Vanya’s parents arrive.

The film runs a bit over two hours, taking its time to establish the characters of Ani and Vanya and showing us that whatever we may think of the transactional nature of their relationship – the payment for sex, the drug use, the excessive partying, the lack of any adult responsibilities or accountability – that the two found some level of safety within each other. The film never shies away from the fact that Vanya is a rich tool and then Ani is looking at this as an escape from her sordid life, but the film treats it as real without hiding the fact that Vanya is paying for Ani’s company and that the two are probably using each other to run away from their problems. It’s the magic of director Sean Baker’s use of extreme close-ups and handheld shots that gives the film an almost documentary feel. He unabashedly shows us the drug use and the sex but juxtaposes it with the two youths feeling safe in each other’s arms (and in the luxury of Vanya’s seemingly unending supply of cash).

When all of this starts to crumble, Ani’s background and history comes to the foreground and we see her fighting Toros, Garnick, and Igor with all her might. And boy is she formidable. The 25-minute scene of their confrontation is a hilarious farce that shows off each actor magnificent comedic timing as well as their full use of their physicality to make that scene one of the most memorable scenes in the past decade. It’s funny and well-executed but it is also incredible in how it turns the whole movie over and shifts it from an R-18 rom-com into an odyssey. As Baker takes us through the ins-and-outs of the Russian community in Brooklyn, we get to see another side of America that is usually left out in all its usual Hollywood propaganda of how the US is the greatest country in the world.

It’s here where we realise that Ani is just another child of immigrants trying to find her piece of the American dream. She thought she found it in the arms of a son of a Russian oligarch but, instead, she faces yet another American truth: only the rich get richer, and everyone still has to pay their dues.

Madison and Borisov are so deserving of all the award nominations they’ve been receiving this award season. Madison keeps Ani from being boring or cloying or fictional. Borisov’s Igor is a powerful presence in the film by the way he just stands in the background watching everything unfolding, receiving the full brunt of Ani’s anger, and finding space for his own voice to serve as a wonderful counterpoint to all the madness going on in the film.

‘Anora’ is such a splendid movie with how it takes the Cinderella story and turns it on its head. It never shies away from universal truths about how unfair this world is; how the class divide knows no culture or border and how deep down inside, we all just want to be loved. It’s funny and poignant and dark and bright all at the same time. It’s such an enjoyable two hours in the cinema and it’s probably going to be in my list of favourites for years to come.

My Rating:

Anora is still showing in cinemas. Check showtimes and buy your tickets here.

January 21, 2025
“Paddington in Peru” Wows Critics with a 93% Rotten Tomatoes Score – Catch It in Cinemas Starting January 29!
The beloved marmalade-loving bear is back! Paddington in Peru has captured the hearts of fans and critics alike, earning a glowing 93% on Rotten Tomatoes. This third installment takes viewers on a vibrant journey to Peru, where Paddington reconnects with his roots and solves a touching family mystery.

Paddington

From waterfalls to Inca riddles, this richly colored, heartwarming tale blends thrilling adventure with Paddington’s trademark humor and charm.

What Critics Are Saying

Critics can’t get enough of Paddington’s new adventure:
- Variety praises its universal appeal:
  “Paddington in Peru is, as any Paddington adventure should be, fast and buoyant and disarmingly sunny in a way that viewers who weren’t alive — or at least of cinemagoing age — for the 2017 release of Paddington 2 will lap up.”
- The Hollywood Reporter highlights Paddington’s unmatched charm:
  “Although returning players Hugh Bonneville, Madeleine Harris and Samuel Joslin as the other three Brown family members make significant contributions along with Mortimer, no one can hold the screen with a hard stare like Paddington. He pulls off one his best here, a perfectly calibrated study in facial movement, lighting (particularly in the brown-gold glitter of his eyes) and comic timing.”
- The BBC applauds its wholesome story:
  “Dotted with waterfalls and piranhas, double crosses and Inca riddles, the Browns’ jungle quest is the subject of a wholesome, well-constructed, richly coloured adventure yarn with just enough of the eccentric charm, animated interludes and musical numbers that make the Paddington series what it is.”
- Slant Magazine celebrates its message on family and identity:
  “While it’s never didactic or heavy-handed about its messaging, Paddington in Peru also offers an idea of Britishness that’s multifaceted and modern, as the titular bear celebrates his official status as a citizen of the U.K. while reconnecting with his Peruvian roots.“
Plot Synopsis

When Paddington discovers his Aunt Lucy is missing from the Home for Retired Bears, he sets off with the Brown family on an unforgettable journey to Peru. Guided by a cryptic map, their quest leads them through lush rainforests and treacherous rivers in search of Aunt Lucy—and perhaps one of the world’s greatest treasures.

This adventure, filled with wit, warmth, and plenty of marmalade, showcases Paddington’s enduring ability to make the world a brighter place.

Brown Family

Star-Studded Cast

Featuring Hugh Bonneville, Emily Mortimer, Olivia Colman, Antonio Banderas, and Ben Whishaw as the voice of Paddington, this film promises an unforgettable cinematic experience.

Antonio Banderas as Hunter Cabot

Don’t Miss It!

Experience the magic of Paddington in Peru in Philippine cinemas starting January 29, 2025. Join the conversation with #PaddingtoninPeru and follow @columbiapicph for updates!

_{Photo & Video Credit: “Columbia Pictures”}
January 20, 2025
Movie Review — Dreadful and Genuinely Scary, ‘Wolf Man’ Loses Steams by Its Third Act

With a 15-minute prologue that really sets the mood, Leigh Whannell’s ‘Wolf Man’ establishes itself as a horror film that is rooted in dread. It’s a long exposition that details the tension-filled relationship between a young boy and his father who are living isolated in the woods of Oregon. The father, a military-man by his demeanor and language, is teaching his son about survival and hunting when they are attacked by a large animal that appears to be standing on two legs. It’s barely seen but knowing this film and what it’s about, we know it’s the wolf man and it sets us up for what we expect to be a scary ride.

We jump thirty years later and that young boy, Blake, is not a father to Ginger and is married to journalist Charlotte. Ginger and Blake have a very strong connection, obviously a far cry from Blake’s own relationship with his father but Charlotte seems the odd one out. The marriage is not doing well, and Charlotte seems disconnected to both her husband and child. But when Blake receives news that his father is now officially declared dead, he decides to bring everyone to Oregon to help him pack his father’s belongings and would love to use that time for the family to get closer together. Unfortunately, the wolf man that we’ve seen in the prologue is still in those woods and at the arrival of Blake and his family, they become his new prey.

With a cast of four performers, ‘Wolf Man’ is economical and tight. At 103 minutes, the film feels fast and never boring. Whannell makes full use of long shots to show how isolated the family is the moment they get to Oregon, which helps sets the fear knowing that they are all alone and far away from any sort of civilization. When they are attacked by the wolf man and forced to run and take shelter at Blake’s childhood home, it becomes a battle for survival. When the meat of the story happens, it all unfolds within one night, which allows for Whannell’s and director of photography Stefan Duscio to really play with light and shadows to create the suspense. We know the wolf man is just outside the house. We know they are all alone. And what’s worse, Blake is hurt and is slowly turning into a wolf man himself.

The way by which Blake becomes a wolf man is quite well-done. The volume starts to increase showing us his hearing is getting stronger and when he gets dizzy, a symptom of his transformation, the camera shifts angles to accompany his disorientation, and when the scene is covered in darkness, the camera shifts to his point-of-view and we start to see through his heightened vision. It’s techniques like these that really immerses us into Blake’s transformation: how he is slowly losing himself to this affliction.

Christopher Abbott as Blake in Wolf Man, directed by Leigh Whannell

What the film failed to immerse us into is Charlotte’s point-of-view. Blake and Ginger’s relationship had been established quite early on and so Ginger’s insistence on making room for her dad even when she can see that he’s changing makes sense. Their connection is the grounding element of the film. But Charlotte never has a moment to be vulnerable or to show her humanity. She’s presented to us as cold and distant and the trip to Oregon was supposed to be a chance for her and Blake and her and her daughter to get closer – a chance for the audience to see her softer side. Instead, she finds herself in a horror movie and as the protagonist role shifts from Blake to Charlotte, the film begins to lose its anchor. The love she has for her family which motivates all her actions at the latter half of the film has not been explored or developed throughout the film leaving it sort of hollow or empty.

All of a sudden, the moment Charlotte takes the lead, the film isn’t so scary. Surviving isn’t so vital to the enjoyment of the film. Julia Garner, who plays Charlotte, is doing the best she can but there’s very little space for her in the script to give her character more humanity as she’s thrust into survival mode before she has a chance to show us what she’s got. Christopher Abbott manages to keep us invested in his character with his earnestness in the role. Even the way he speaks to Ginger (Matilda Firth) is so adult and so straightforward, but you know it’s rooted in his own difficult relationship with his father. It could feel so awkward for a script but without having to explain it, Abbott justifies it through the performance.

‘Wolf Man’ has genuine frightening moments and some really good set ups and doesn’t rely on jump scares to create fear and dread. Unfortunately, it forgot to take time to develop and grow its second lead and that’s where it loses its steam.

My Rating:

Wolf Man is still showing in cinemas. Check showtimes and buy your tickets here.

January 18, 2025
Movie Review — ‘Sonic the Hedgehog 3’ Is a Formulaic Plot-Heavy Mess Even Two Jim Carreys Can’t Save

I was very much surprised and charmed by the first ‘Sonic the Hedgehog’, but I don’t remember if I have seen the sequel or if I missed it. So, coming into ‘Sonic the Hedgehog 3’ meant there was a lot of goodwill from the first film that was carried into the cinema with me. Surrounded by a family with their unruly children (really, parents should learn to discipline their kids in public spaces), I was expecting to have a really good time with the third installment of this series. I was quite disappointed when the charm and warmth that the first film had was gone and was replaced by an over emphasis on plot while, at the same time, sidelining it to give way for Jim Carrey to have his gags.

In the third installment, we are introduced to Shadow (voiced by Keanu Reeves), another hedgehog who appears faster and stronger than Sonic and unlike our protagonist, he’s not a nice hedgehog. Shadow has been locked up in a containment cell for the last 50 years, but he awakens in the first ten minutes of the film, frees himself, and wreaks havoc in the nearby city of Tokyo. In the other side of the world, Sonic (Ben Schwartz), Tails (Colleen O’Shaughnessy), and Knuckles (Idris Elba) are having a picnic with Tom (James Marsden) and Madie (Tika Sumpter), They celebrate Sonic’s first arrival on earth and at a race, they manage to find Sonic’s old cave (from the first movie). Here, Sonic and Tom get to talk about choices and being a good person – a very scripted scene that underlines the theme of the whole film and you know will be important later on – before the agents of G.U.N, come to take Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles to Tokyo to face off Shadow.

Jim Carrey as Ivo Robotnik and Gerald Robotnik, Shadow (Keanu Reeves) and Lee Majdoub as Agent Stone in Sonic the Hedgehog 3 from Paramount Pictures and Sega of America, Inc.

When Shadow proves invincible, Sonic must resort to working with Dr Robotnik (Jim Carrey), who is determined to find out who is using his technology without his permission. The team-up is short-lived, though, for they discover that Shadow is working with Professor Robotnik (also played by Carrey), Dr. Robotnik’s grandfather.

Knuckles (Idris Elba), Sonic (Ben Schwartz) and Tails (Colleen O’Shaughnessey) in Sonic the Hedgehog 3 from Paramount Pictures and Sega of America, Inc.

Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles must reunite with Tom and Madie and figure out how to stop Shadow, and the two evil Robotnik’s from taking over the world.

Sonic (Ben Schwartz), Knuckles (Idris Elba), Tails (Colleen O’Shaughnessey, James Marsden as Tom and Tika Sumpter as Maddie in Sonic the Hedgehog 3 from Paramount Pictures and Sega of America, Inc.

What makes ‘Sonic the Hedgehog 3’ arduous is that the film feels like multiple segments leading up to an obvious realisation at the end of the film for its two main characters (three if you count Dr. Robotnik). The film’s formula is way out in the open for you to see and nothing about its elaborate plot feels surprising. What makes it even worse is that the film’s tedious plot ends up pausing and taking breaks so that Jim Carrey can play out a sketch or a gag – and with two Jim Carreys in a scene, it can get a little overindulgent – and the whole pacing of the film is ruined. Some gags are funny. Some feel tired and old. Some the kids in the audience loved and others went way above their heads.

When the big finale comes, without that feeling of surprise and the callback to the obviously scripted parts about the choices people need to make, the film feels spoiled before it even got a chance to get good.

Sonic (Ben Schwartz), Knuckles (Idris Elba) and Tails (Colleen O’Shaughnessey) in Sonic the Hedgehog 3 from Paramount Pictures and Sega of America, Inc.

The only thing that still manages to surprise me is how good James Marsden is with such a flimsy script. He is practically performing to a CGI character and I’m not privy to how the scenes were shot, if there was a puppet or if Ben Schwartz was actually there, but Marsden really sells Tom’s good guy persona and makes it believable that he’s talking to a blue, anthropomorphic hedgehog from another part of the universe. It’s such an amazing performance. Jim Carrey is Jim Carrey. He’s good at that. Whether you are tired of his shtick or if it can still capture you (like it still sometimes does, for me), then that’s a personal thing.

It’s unfortunate that none of the heart and warmth of the first film found its way to ‘Sonic the Hedgehog 3’ but consider the response of the kids in the cinema when that mid credit scene came out, the fourth looks like it still has an audience excited and waiting for the sequel.

My Rating:

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is now showing in cinemas! Check showtimes and buy your tickets here.

January 18, 2025